Executives remain committed to DEI — diversity, equity and inclusion — despite a rising backlash against it

Executives remain committed to DEI — diversity, equity and inclusion — despite a rising backlash against it, per Axios.

However, just as many executives (59%) observed an increased backlash toward DEI programming following the U.S. Supreme Court's rejection of race-based admissions policies last June, according to Littler. Moreover, nearly three-quarters of C-suite leaders surveyed expressed that addressing politically divisive topics in the workplace has become a notable challenge, indicating that employers may be facing pressure from various perspectives regarding DEI.

Nevertheless, leaders also conveyed that the court rulings have not diminished their commitment to prioritizing DEI programming. Over two-thirds stated that the rulings "have not altered their approach to IE&D in any way."

"We're seeing many employers maintain—or even strengthen—their commitment to IE&D, even as backlash spikes," remarked Jeanine Conley Daves, Littler shareholder and member of the firm's IE&D consulting practice. "Demonstrating that IE&D is part of their core values, many organizations are taking the prudent step of auditing and assessing their current initiatives, rather than eliminating them amid the challenges in today's political and legal environment."

When examining different leaders, such as chief diversity officers (CDOs) and other executives, varying perspectives emerge. Only 41% of CDOs surveyed indicated that their organizations have not changed their approach following the SCOTUS rulings, in contrast to 69% of all leaders.

Notably, chief legal officers are more likely to assert that organizations are intensifying efforts around social justice initiatives, with only 11% of CDOs expressing the same sentiment.

"The lack of alignment in the C-suite suggests an opportunity for increased communication across roles to minimize legal risks and allow for the effective implementation of IE&D programs," noted Littler.

Other surveys have also indicated companies' concerns about the future of DEI initiatives in the aftermath of the SCOTUS ruling. In Coqual's Black Equity Index, 86% of participating companies expressed concern about the impact of the ruling on workplace DEI, with many reporting reduced involvement and decreased investment.